Chapter 13: Oral Presentations
Format of a Scientific Talk
Preparing for a Talk
Question and Answer Period
Works Cited
Keep slides organized.
Identify the purpose and main point of the study.
Pick the most important figure for the core slide.
Know the audience.
Prepare an overview slide in case the presentation is long enough to warrant it.
Work on talk and visual aids well in advance.
Make slides attractive yet simple.
Know what programs are available to create your slide.
Pay attention to design and color of the project.
Choose the right font.
Keep the total amount of text limited.
Give tables and figures a title, but exclude legends or captions.
Think visually.
Keep your table and figures from being cluttered.
Prepare notes with large print and be sure to memorize the opening sentences.
Practice!
Delivery of a Talk
Dress appropriately and arrive early.
Use traditional spoken English.
Keep within the time limit and speak slowly.
Make sure you are audible.
Avoid distracting noises.
Keep within the presenter's triangle.
Maintain eye contact with the audience.
Use physical gestures.
Be aware of body movement.
Provide an explanation for all of your slides and everything in the slides.
Maintain a consistent flow with your speaking.
Signal the conclusion.
Maintain authority, but also be polite and calm.
Hofmann A.H. (2019) Writing in the Biological Sciences: A Comprehensive Resource for Scientific Communication 3rd Edition. New York (NY). Oxford University Press.